Pregnancy and you blog

Pregnancy and you: Welcome to our blog

I was touring the baby department of a local superstore over the weekend and I was astounded at all the "things" that are available now for moms, newborns and babies.

My baby just turned 19 last week and I discovered things have come a long way in the last 20 years. Slings and carriers; cradle swings and play yards (I guess playpen does sound kind of prison like); baby monitors and portable electric breast pumps (don't ask about mine). Car seats are all 5 point and strollers look like SUVs. What a marvel! How did I care for a baby without at least some of these things?

I might not have had all those things but there were other things it seems I had less of: rules. I could eat a club sandwich every day. I could gorge on fish. I could drink coffee. I could eat soft cheeses in ignorant bliss. Today's pregnant woman could wonder how I had such healthy babies.

There do seem to be so many do's and don'ts for pregnant women today. It can seem like there is no living while you are pregnant, at least not the life you were used to. I hope this blog can be a place for pregnant women to share their concerns and their worries as well as their joys and little miracles. As a mother and a nurse midwife I look forward to being a part of this community.

I'm sorry it has taken me so long to answer your posts. Chin, the only medicine you need to take is a folic acid supplement. Most women's vitamins have the recommended amount.
Anum, there are 2 kinds of tests for Toxoplasmosis. One tells you if you have had it in the past and the other shows if you currently have the virus. I would follow the plan recommended by your doctor.

mary @ Mayo

November 26, 2012 1:58 a.m.

I had a mis carriage last 2006 when i was 23, then i started to take pills after that because i wasnt finished my college. Then i stop taking is last year DEC 2011. Now that im ready to have a baby is there any medication that i should take? I thought i would be pregnant after stopping the pill. Please give me advise what to do. Thanks

CHIN

November 10, 2012 10:02 p.m.

i am pregnant after 10 year of mirage is my first trimester now it is my first trimester and my Toxoplasmosis test is positive .mt doctor says take azythromycine and i am worried about it as i cant afford any risk help pls.

anum

October 29, 2012 1:56 p.m.

I know this one is old but it is the only one labeled some what appropriate for this question. I am 6 weeks along with my 4th child and went to the ER because I was bleeding they ran a blood type screen and told me I was A negative. I have always been A positive is it possible to change blood typeswhile preganant? They ran 2 tests and they both came back A negative but they have on record from previous visits I am A positive. I called the blood bank where i donated last year they said A positive as well. I am a little freaked out by this and to top it off they gave me the Rhophylac shot and which is for Rh negative pregnant women not positive. Please help me understand is there anyway on earth a womens blood type can be misread during pregnancy or change period?
Thanks

Rachelle

June 23, 2012 10:20 p.m.

Im currently trying to get pregnant. Im taking fertility blend. But I dont have any issues with releasing my own eggs.is there a chance I could have opened myself up to having more than one baby if we did get pregnant this month.I've been taking these pills while I was ovulating.help me out here

cricket

January 10, 2012 2:46 p.m.

Kawther, I think all should be fine with the baby. You might not have even been pregnant when you took the medication. When you see your health care provider for your prenatal visit be sure to let them know about the medication so they can reassure you also.

Mary@Mayo

January 7, 2012 6:59 p.m.

hello i am preganant in week 4. and i just knew that this week when i have missed period. i was receiving ciprofolxacin antibiotic for treating the UTI that i had before getting preganant. im scared that this will affect my baby????!! do i have to do something? i stopped this medication before two weeks(nearly).

kawther

October 12, 2011 1:39 p.m.

i had sex 8 days ago and the condom broke. i started having headaches, and nausea all day. by back is hurting. Could i be pregnant. i have polycystic ovary syndrome.. But before i had sex i just got over my period like 5 days before. Could i be pregnat i am really scared. and my breast fill sore sometimes when you touch them but not alwasys.

barbara

August 9, 2011 7:52 p.m.

Is it safe to practice yoga during all stages of pregnancy?

Stacy

June 7, 2011 2:23 p.m.

My period just stoped on the 29th of may and starting last night i started having light pink a little brown spotting. Could it be implantation or just another period?

Amanda

May 8, 2011 6:22 p.m.

I am 7 week pregnant. I will be having my checkup in two weeks. i read that in pregnancy the body temperature generally rises but for me it is staying in between 97.6-98.7. Is it something that I should be worried?

Sonia

March 25, 2011 11:13 a.m.

My daughter is 36 weeks pregnant. She's had a pretty healthy pregnancy so far. She delivered 2 other healthy babies. One thing we've noticed the past few weeks - When we touch her 'baby bump' the baby shys away from the touch. In my former pregnancies and hers, that baby likes to 'push back, or move when touched'. Is it normal the baby shys away?

Karen

February 4, 2011 7:50 a.m.

my 31 yr old daughter is being treated by a fertility spec. She is very thin & works 12 hr days with no diagnosed fertility issues. she was put on synthroid
and clomid for months & now is on follistim injections still with synthroid medication. she is disgusted with no results. suggestions? Webmd says no synthroid with follistim injections as a warning? Comments?

mom

December 6, 2010 3:29 p.m.

I would recommend that you do a pregnancy test. The urine tests are very accurate. If you have a negative I would repeat it in two weeks if your period has not started. You can also do a blood pregnancy test. You do seem to have some of the symptoms of pregnancy though.

mary @ Mayo

November 29, 2010 8:52 p.m.

For the past couple of weeks i have been questioning if i may possibly be pregnant. My period is 2 weeks late, however i do believe that i have been implantation bleeding. It was very light and almost a brownish color?!? My breasts have been swollen and really sore for about 2 weeks now, im needing more sleep then usual, i have had food cravings, but no food diversions yet, headaches, mood swings.... And a couple weeks ago i became constipated for about a week and then it passed. Thats what originally started my curiosity on what was going on. Does anyone have any answers for me??

Katye

November 3, 2010 10:12 a.m.

To answer Twila's question, It all depends on timing. Sperm live about 5 days in your body. The egg lives 12-24 hours after it is released from the ovary. So you can get pregnant with intercourse 5 days before you ovulate and 1-2 days after you ovulate.

Mary@Mayo

October 29, 2010 3:50 p.m.

how soon after having intercourse can a women become pregnant?

twila

August 5, 2010 1:44 p.m.

I have type 1 diabetes and thyroid and im 42 and pregnant mt doctor said i should be 5 weeks but the blood work said 4 weeks is this as bad as the doctor makes it seem

Jessica

June 29, 2010 8:51 p.m.

I had my first ultrasound yesterday, which should be 6w6d from my LMP. The doctor said there was no fetal pole and the sac measurements indicated 5w4d. Does this mean I will miscarry?
The history here is that I got off the pill in order to begin fertility testing to freeze embryos since I'm 31 and no where near a family yet. My LMP was 11May, and I tested positive for pregnancy on 23Jun. I was having a pain in what seemed my right ovary and swelling of the nearby gland, so they brought me in for an ultrasound. Turns out the pain and swelling is unrelated and likely some infection, possibly herpes.
Because I was not trying to get pregnant, I have been drinking and smoking over the past month due to back to back celebrations.
I just want to know if I have anything to worry about based on the ultrasound. I'm due for another ultrasound on 07Jul.

Lucy

February 9, 2010 12:20 a.m.

I have ADD. I know that if a person is not ADD and takes medicine for it then it is like they are taking speed. If I take medicine for this while pregnant then I will be puting speed into the baby's system because whatever i take the baby takes too. If I take the medicine then the baby will be born having with drawls and may turn to drugs later in life. What can I do about this becaue I need the medicine to attend med school but I do not want the baby to take medicine they don't need.

Amy

November 20, 2009 9:38 p.m.

im wondering why Magnesium Sulfate is often used to treat eclamptic seizures instead of other anticonvulsants such as Phenytoin, Diazepam etc. ..

winzy

November 7, 2009 9:03 p.m.

Re: No name given and mother issues
As a mental health clinician, the decision to have a child belongs to you and your husband. Your mother can dispense her advice but you have the knowledge and power to make a personal choice. In respect to being an individual living with mental illness, you are still a person first and foremost. I would encourage you to do more introspection with a therapist and your Gyno to explore this decision with you. Best of luck!

Basil

October 7, 2009 9:47 a.m.

Hi all, Just a word about flu vaccination when planning pregnancy. The nasal vaccine is a live-attenuated vaccine and has a theoretical risk in pregnancy, though no ill effects have been shown. It makes some sense to avoid pregnancy for 4 weeks after having the nasal vaccine. The injectable vaccine is a killed virus; it is safe for all stages of pregnancy and should be considered safe when planning conception as well. I believe recommendations suggesting a wait before conception are carry overs from when we avoided all vaccines in the first trimester. Get your injectable seasonal influenza vaccination and H1N1 when it is available if you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant this season.

Dr. Roger Harms, MayoClinic.com

October 1, 2009 3:54 p.m.

I was just reading an article from Dr. Harms about the flu vaccine and pregnant women. In one section it states that the regular flu vaccine is safe for those in any stage of pregnancy, though if you are trying to conceive then you should wait about 4 wks before trying to conceive after you receive the vaccine. anybody know why? -LR

Linda R

June 30, 2009 8:23 p.m.

I was just wondering is it possible to be pregnant and not no that you are? What are the chances of a healthy baby if this possible?

Terri

June 15, 2009 8:31 p.m.

Pre-pregnancy concerns: I am 27 years old and have been on the same birth control for about 8 years consecutively with no lag time in between where I stopped taking the pill. I was wondering if being on the pill for a certain number of years will impact the speed of contraception once you stop taking it. My fear is that I'll be too old to conceive or it will be very difficult because of how long I've been on the pill. Are my concerns valid? Thank you.

Simone

April 15, 2009 9:27 p.m.

Today I went for an ultrasound due to sever cramps... all is well! Got to see the little bugger! Little heart pumpin' away! However, the tech said that the baby was measurring at 6 weeks 1 day.... that math doesn't seem possible to me. I calculate 7 weeks. I had my last period on Feb 25th.....used an ovulation kit and had a LH surge on march 10th(ovulation). Positive preg test on March 19th....way before my next period was due....if I was only 6w1d I shouldn't have had a positive test for another week...right??? So confused! Is it possible the baby is just small???

robin

March 13, 2009 11:29 a.m.

I just wanted to say that I really enjoy this blog. It's nice to have soemthing to turn to when you are uncertain about things. Even though I'm to be a 4th time mom...I still have a ton of questions about pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding! Thanks!

~Scarlet! mom to 3 soon to be 4

March 11, 2009 2:15 p.m.

can i safely breast feed immediately after surgery

suzanne smiley

December 29, 2008 8:11 a.m.

we not sure if my wife is pregnant what are some sings

hope so

December 16, 2008 7:37 p.m.

my question is, is it normal to bleed a little im 34 weeks along and i dilated 2 already i had went pee and when i wiped there was blood but it was really light like light pink wsnt very much blood jus a little i dont know if thts normal or isit sumthin to be concerned about i called my clinic and they were closed so im jus wtchin out for anymore i had went pee again and this time there wasnt any blood or anything i jus had went to the doc today to and things were fine it all happenedwhen i got home so idk anyone know what i shld do or has anyone else have the same problem?

Heather

December 9, 2008 12:37 p.m.

I continue to welcome everyone to the site. I enjoy everyone's questions and answers that are shared. That is one of the most important things about the site; connecting with other women.
I would like to advise Car Car to get a pregnancy test as soon as possible. Home pregnancy tests are fine. The sooner you find out the sooner you can make decisions and plans.

Mary Murry . com

November 29, 2008 8:50 p.m.

just to add to my previous comment, my 14 year old daughter may find it hard to adjust to this pregnancy and new baby, how can i approach this.

Car Car

November 29, 2008 8:49 p.m.

I have a 14 year old and righ tnow i am feeling symptoms of pregnancy but haven't missed my period yet but have been feeling sick for the past week, should i wait to get a test done or do a home test now.

Car Car

November 10, 2008 10:58 a.m.

Reply to the post from August 21.
I believe that you and your husband are the only people to decide when to have a baby. Your mother might have had different circumstances and experiences, but I believe that nobody can tell you what to do. Even from medical point of view it is much better to have a baby earlier then later (considering complications and possibility of birth defects). Regarding your depression - firstly, medicine is very advanced now in treatment of depression in pregnant women. You would want to discuss this issue with your health care provider. Some people are prone to depression, some take medications or behavioral therapy for years, but they are perfectly capable of giving loving and caring home for a child. And it does not mean that yor baby 100 % will develop depression in her (his) life. And believe me, when you become pregnant your mother will change her attitude. And if not, too bad (and not for you!).

Julia

October 9, 2008 4:38 a.m.

I am 24yo and just over 8 weeks pregnant (due May next year). This was an unplanned pregnancy, and I am worried I will not be able to defer my new job due to commence in March next year. My partner is prepared to take time off to be the primary carer, I am wondering what is the absolute minimum time I can take off? Given my age and no health problems. At the moment I am looking at two months maximum (3 weeks before birth and 5 weeks after)

Anonymous

September 28, 2008 2:46 p.m.

Hi, I'm 19 years old and I'm really scared that there is a chance I may be pregnant. About a week ago, my boyfriend of almost 2 years were having sex. It was taking a long time for him to finish, so we decided to stop. We realized the condom was gone, and soon later realized it got pushed inside of me. He was a little drunk at the time we were having intercouse, and he doesn't think he finished, although I was very wet down there. I am on yaz (birth control) and I take it regularly. We also decided that I should take the morning after pill for even more safe mesaures. What is the likelihood that I can still get pregnant?

kayla

August 22, 2008 8:16 p.m.

I am just needing some advise. I am a diabetic mother to be. I am having alot of problems with my blood sugar readings dropping. My doctor tells me that it is normal. I am having them so bad that I am having to leave work. I am just wondering if this is really normal and if someone else is or has gone through this before.

April

August 21, 2008 1:28 p.m.

I'm 27 and my husband and I are starting to talk about trying to conceive. We are financially stable and have had the luxury of being able to live off of his salary alone for a while. Both of our careers are well established at this point. The problem I'm having is that my mother has been very insistent on trying to have me do the exact opposite things she did. She got married when she was 20 and had me when she was 21. She first insisted that I didn't get married until I was 30 and didn't have children until I was 35. Now she says maybe I shouldn't have children at all because I suffer from depression and it would be horrible if I passed that on to a child. I am at a loss. I feel that my husband and I are ready and we have always wanted to have children; however, I always imagined my mother being there for me to talk to about this. I am also wondering if we should wait until we can buy a bigger house. We have a 2 bedroom townhome and are saving up to move within the next 4 years.

Anonymous

August 12, 2008 8:42 a.m.

It's my first pregnancy. My expcted due date is on septmber 14. I'm having a hard time in deciding if I will try normal birth delivery or elective C-section. I'm not overweight as well as my baby. We are both in good condition as well as the baby's position. It is just that I'm really scared about labor pains, episiotomy and my pain tolerance is really low. I'm also not brave enough to face the pain. My other concern is that what if i'l try normal delivery and then i will not be able to make it, then they will perform emergency C-section! which is I don't prefer. I would rather want an elective C-section than an emergency one..because I witth elective C-section, I will be mentally, physically and emotiobally prepared. But the other question is, what if I will be able to make it through normal delivery? please advise. I'm confused. tnx

shine

July 2, 2008 3:41 p.m.

Hi Mary,
This is my first pregnancy and I am 31 years old.I am 38 weeks pregnant now and my baby's head is not engaged yet. Is there still time for this to happen? Is it recommendable to do squatting exercises? Or other type of exercises? What might be causing my baby not to be engaged yet?
Thank you.

Romina

June 23, 2008 5:12 p.m.

Paula,
Thank you so much for your feedback...I guess I'll just have to wait and see :)

Anonymous

June 23, 2008 8:49 a.m.

Dreamer,
I don't know if it was all in my head or not, but, yes, I felt things that were not the same as they had always been. I felt, when implantation occured in the uterus, some thing along the lines of a great big mosquito bite. This was probably about a week after conception. And about a week and a half after conception, I had the sore breasts and much more frequent unination. I know this sounds strange, but I just knew that I was pregnant. It was very exciting to feel these different things.

Paula - NNY

June 19, 2008 5:53 p.m.

I was just curious if anyone has ever been so sensitive that they can actually feel conception taking place. Like, cramping and sore breasts...wouldn't this make sense due to the hormone fluctuation.
Looking for some feedback...please help!

Dreamer..

June 18, 2008 10:34 a.m.

i am 30 weeks along and went to the doctor yesterday and my blood pressure was 80 over 30. the doctor didnt really say much so im just w2ondering is this serious and what can i do to raise it back up??

dani

June 9, 2008 7:40 a.m.

My daughter has epilepsy. She has been taking the drug Zonegran. I have not found much information on whether or not she should be careful about getting pregnant with this drug. She is 27 and in good health. She is presently seeing a doctor specializing in &quot;research&quot; and I am not comfortable with his wait and see approach. She was initially diagnosed with epilepsy at Mayo Clinic around 14 years ago. My wife and I are suggesting that her and her husband go to Mayo Clinic to get some pre-pregnancy counseling to more fully understand whether or not she should be on another drug, or possibly another consideration. Thanks for your time and consideration.

Walter Slingsby

May 27, 2008 9:01 a.m.

can you get pregneat well breastfeeding?

Denise

May 25, 2008 3:13 a.m.

Janine you did nothing that caused your baby harm. The lifting and other activities wouldn't have done anything to the baby's hips. It is possible he was breech for a long time. Please try not to feel guilty about your sons hips. It was out of your control.

Mary Murry Mayoclinic.com

May 23, 2008 7:24 p.m.

Yolanda,
You asked if it is possible to get pregnant while on the pill? Yes!! I have been on several different types from the pill to the patch and I have taken them as close to perfect as I can. I have gotten pregnant three times while on them. Guess it is time for a more permanent fix.

Jennifer

May 22, 2008 2:31 p.m.

When my son was born his legs were notin their hip sockets. He was full term, delivered by a planned C-section. C-section was reccomended because his head was large and the umbilical cord was around his neck and he was a footling breach. I thought it was all my fault because I foolishly put in a brick patio when I was in my last weeks of pregnancy. I was lifting fifty pound bags of sand, working on my hands and knees, and it took half a pallet of bricks to complete the project. I did feel pressure below my rib cage and my belly felt tight. I would take breaks until this feelings passed. My question is, did I cause distress to my son and did I cause the complications of the pregnancy?

Janine

April 19, 2008 2:26 p.m.

This is in response to Roberta's question: I had two wisdom teeth pulled during my pregnancy one at 6 months the other at 8 months (I still need another pulled). Its perfectly ok. The dentist/x-rayer should put a double apron over your belly for extra protection and they'll at least need a note from your doctor explaining what drugs they can prescribe (for example antibiotics/pain killers). My babies fine...even more than fine (8lbs at 9 months). So go for it but be sure to check with your doctor 1st. Dental problems, like a bad tooth (which I've had), could cause preterm labor. So if its necessary do it, if its a wisdom tooth they're try to save go on a head and get it pulled....wisdom teeth are in part extra teeth and the hardest to maintain since they're way in the back. Good Luck :)

Jennie

April 15, 2008 8:54 p.m.

where can i find a good &quot;do and don't&quot; list for being pregnant?

Anonymous

April 14, 2008 1:44 a.m.

My husband recently had a vasectomy reversal and I was wondering if anyone else out their has experienced this and what their experience was like. The surgeon said that everything went great and that we shouldn't have a problem, which we are exstatic about! Just wondering if anyone had any encouraging thoughts or stories about pregnancy after a vasectomy reversal, or any tips on how to concieve afterward! Thanks!

Melissa

April 14, 2008 1:15 a.m.

Currently 12 weeks pregnant - have had spotting for last 5 days (vary between light brown and light pink colour), lower abdominal pain, upper abdominal pain (heart burn), the noisiest tummy in town (so much wind but can't release it), and constipation. Had 12 week ultrasound on Friday and was told the baby was perfectly healthy, no abnormalities, heartbeat 164.
I have a doctor's appointment this week to have it checked out and I was in hospital last week getting the spotting and cramps checked out. I was just told to rest as cervix was closed.
Has anyone else had these experiences? Just curious - Don't worry I am always at hospital or doctors getting checked out!

Kelly

April 13, 2008 2:45 p.m.

I think I'm in the right place for information :-). In my past I have had a history of sensitivity to birth control pills, they always make me nauseous. I recently quit taking them because I got really sick one night. I figured my period would be coming soon. It has been 7 days since I last took them. To my surprise I have been exhibiting signs of pregnancy. The nausea never went away, my breasts have been really sore, I have been light headed and fatiued and still no sign of my period. So, my question is can you get pregnant while taking birth control and if so, how long should I wait to take a test or go to the doctor?

Yolanda

March 30, 2008 12:54 a.m.

I find all these posts so interesting! I'm 38 and expecting my 6th girl - yes, you read right!My oldest daughter is 12 and my youngest will be 2 in 3 weeks. The point I'd like to bring home to all you ladies, especially you newer mommies-to-be, is to choose your health care provider carefully. After all the ob/gyn's I've had, I recommend considering going with a midwife! Be scrutinizing and careful in who you choose and the facility you choose, even if you're considering a homebirth, and explore all your options. It can make a big difference in your and your baby's outcome. God bless you all!

Laura

March 26, 2008 1:30 p.m.

Thank you Bonnie and Julie for your positive feedback. I agree that time will make all the difference. My daughter still isn't thrilled with the idea of diapers and diaper bags, but that will change in time. There is 4 years difference in the childrens ages, so the 4 year old can be a real &quot;helper&quot;. I am one of 5 children, the last 3, including me, were not planned and all just 16-18 months apart. My mom and I talked about that a couple of weeks ago. She considered it God's will and took it all in stride. Lucky for the last 3 of us!

Grandma

March 22, 2008 8:59 p.m.

I'm 37 and 9 months pregnant. I can't wait to see the article on being over 35 and pregnant. Doctors in the beginning of your pregnancy have so much doom and gloom to share with you when you're over 35! I think the prognosis should be based on your health and family history-not solely your age. This is my first baby. There's no way I would have been ready to fully embrace the responsibility and sacrifice of a baby earlier in my life-but that's me. I'm now in a place in my career and maturity to fully embrace this blessing without remorse. I'm elated! I look forward to reading this blog as much as I can before I deliver Camille.

April-Atl.

March 21, 2008 2:59 p.m.

Isn't it wonderful to have such a diverse group? I wish I could answer all questions but I still have to make time to deliver babies. I get a lot ideas for future topics from the comments I read. When I find a common thread, I will try to address it. My blog next week will be about pregnancy over 35.

Mary MurryMayo.com

March 19, 2008 1:54 p.m.

Hi! I have a dental health related question. i'm 12 wks pregnant and i need a root canal. i'm nervous about getting xrays &amp; the medication required. My ob/gyn said that limited xrays are okay with a lead apron and that no vasal constrictors are allowed but that other pain medication is okay. Does anyone have any advice for me?

Roberta

March 18, 2008 5:15 a.m.

Hi Everyone, I am so glad to have found this forum. I am 5.5 weeks pregnant with my first baby and I am thrilled about it.
I must confess that my head is spinning from all the do's and dont's that I have been reading about. Do any of you have some conclusive info on whethee we should or shouldn't dye our hair?

joanne

March 17, 2008 3:04 p.m.

I guess I should clarify...I'm actually 4 weeks pregnant. I don't really get it, but I guess the first two weeks of your cycle are counted even though you are not pregnant.

Paula - NNY

March 17, 2008 11:32 a.m.

Hi, everybody! I'm 2 weeks pregnant, and very excited. I blogged a while ago about me being older (38 years) and my husband having a vasectomy reversed after 8 years. Well, it worked! We are very excited. I knew something was different from my normal cycle. And I was having some of the symptoms, fatigue, breast tenderness, and a strange feeling in my uterine area (it was like a great big mosquito was biting me). Very cool. I've been writing these things down in a day book, so I can always have something to look at.

Paula - NNY

March 14, 2008 11:22 p.m.

I am 4 weeks pregnant with my second child and I am dealing with hyothyroidism. I had my thyroid removed 8 months ago. My levels are normal but I have been told that they will change again. I have also heard that there can be miscarriage increases and defects. Has anyone gone through a pregnancy with a pre-existing thyroid problem?

Becky, AZ

March 14, 2008 1:16 a.m.

Hi! So many topics...it's great. I'm only 4 weeks pregnant with my first. So I'm just taking it easy to get through the 1st trimester. I too have been stressed out about work a bit. My husband and I are totally excited, so that makes things easier. I've been concerned with the controversy over immunizations being linked to autism. Does anyone have any ideas of info on this topic? Good luck to all of you!

VAL

March 11, 2008 2:13 p.m.

I'm currently trying to conceive. My husband and I are dealing with my fertility problem (polycystic ovarian syndrome). I'm searching for ALL the options I can find. Do you have this disorder? I'm currently on Metformin (850mg) to help regulate my insilin levels. What worked for you? This will be my first child (once we conceive) and we've been back and fourth with my Dr. but we have an app. to get a second opinion. Plus I'm overweight and trying to bring it down so I can help my chances. Do you have advise for me?

Lauren

March 10, 2008 8:53 a.m.

Sally-
When done properly, co-sleeping is a wonderful and safe thing. Check out literature from LeLeche League and Dr. Sears. For most people it is safe.

Allison

March 7, 2008 8:05 a.m.

I'm happy to see there are so many &quot;mature&quot; mothers here. At 43, I am expecting my first baby. In this small, rural community where my husband and I live, I enjoy reminding certain people that my mother was also 43 when I was born - and it worked out well for me!

PK

March 5, 2008 10:57 p.m.

My daughter is pg and she was taking seizure meds but stop. She is worried about birth defects. This is her 2nd, the 1st., she went off with no problems but now her dr. wants her back on them. She only has had 2 since she was 17 and now 30, should she take them or not? I can't find anything on pros and cons. I really need you advise and I hope you read this every now and then, so you can answer my question. I hope I didn't offend you by that comment but some people start these blogs and never get back to them. We have already talked to the neuro &amp; internist and they have different opinions. The neuro is insisting and if she doesn't , he will take her driver's license away. Anyways, pls help us. I thank-you in advance, Melba

Melba W

March 5, 2008 6:07 a.m.

Dear Mary,
I believe pregnancy should be fun, it's not a disease but a stressful physiological state. You need a good mindset to carry it. i am having my third pregnancy which i planned for; has 2 babies: 5 and 3. This pregnancy appears to be more stressful than the previous ones but i tried to live my normal life though with some physiological slowing down. I count this period as a temporary one and i can't wait to deliver my last baby hopefully.

Ayanlowo O

March 5, 2008 2:23 a.m.

Dear Donna, pregnant woman in the age of 48. I'm glad to see I'm not the only weird woman, wanting to have a baby in her late forties. From my first marriage I'v got 3 children, the youngest is 15. I'm 47 now, and met an old schoolfriend, we began a relation that was surely meant to be. He is 48. We both look a bit younger than we are. Pregnancy is easier, when you've already had children before. The chance to get pregnant diminishes strong over the age of 37, and the chance of abortions and Down's syndrome becomes higher. Down's syndrome chance is 6%. And then indeed there is 'what do people think of me and how do they keep reacting', also when you bring your child to school. My brother is 51, his son 3 years, and he sees other parents talking about a second child - that will never be the case for him! Still: it's a joy that keeps you young, but you have to feel within if both of you will be healthy enough till the age of 65. My advice: live long and healthy, enjoy! Anneke, Holland

Anneke

March 4, 2008 7:16 p.m.

Thanks Mary - where exactly do I find a maternal fetal medicine doctor? Do I simply ask my OBGYN for a referral? Are there any medical associations or lists I should consult? I am not in a big hurry to get pregnant as i have a 5 month old at the moment and my daughter is in school -- but I would like to get all of the information now, so that in a year or two I will be able to make the best decision.

SPrice

March 4, 2008 7:12 p.m.

Hi Lisa. God must have great plans for your new addition, especially after having your tubes tied. Congratulations!!I am going to be a busy mom too soon. I have a 7,5,3,2year old and one due in July.

Julie B

March 4, 2008 2:22 p.m.

I have been reading the posts everyday. I am overjoyed we have such a community of diverse people responding. I am sorry I can't answer every question. You all have been answering each other and supporting each other. I do want to respond to a few specific questions. Grace, you are doing the right thing with the folic acid. Because of your history, your risk of a repeat baby with a NTD is 5% (that's 95% chance it won't have one). I did learn that your first degree relatives also have an increased risk so if you have sisters considering pregnancy they should take the increased folic acid dose. To SPrice, please consult a specialist, a maternal fetal medicine doctor to help you know what your risks and options are. You want the best infromation from the best people before making decisions like you have to make.

Mary Murry Mayoclinic.com

March 3, 2008 9:11 a.m.

Please do not co-sleep with your baby. All babies need to sleep on their backs, alone and in their own crib. The National Safe Sleep Campaign is trying to educate all new moms about the danger of sleep related deaths.

Sally

March 2, 2008 6:09 p.m.

I'm 29 years old I have a almost 10 month old baby boy. Right after I had him I had my tubes tied. I just found out Im 7 weeks pregnant. I also have two girls 4 and 6. I am very overwhelmed and am having a very hard time adjusting to the idea of having another baby! I am also having A LOT of morning sickness (not only in the mornings) Looking for advice and encouragement...

Lisa

March 1, 2008 7:49 p.m.

My daughter is pregnant. and her husband has cerebral palsy and is in a wheel chair. Does anyone know of a crib maker who makes cribs with sides that slide open so that someone in a wheelchair can take care of the baby? If so please write to amyjeanb@msn.com Thank you.

Carol, Amys' mom

March 1, 2008 3:43 p.m.

My last pregnany showed a neural tube defect at 12 weeks - the diagnosis was fatal. I would like to conceive again but am scared something will be wrong with the baby. I am taking 4000mg of folic acid and I know that is supposed to help. What are the chances of having a healthy baby? I already have a perfect, healthy 3 year old and genetic couseling was not reccommened after the NTD.

Grace

February 29, 2008 4:46 p.m.

Grandma--I am one of six kids and I know that I wasn't &quot;planned.&quot; My mom will frequently say because of me and my younger sister, we managed to keep her and my dad young.

Julie B

February 29, 2008 10:31 a.m.

Thank you so much Lorinda. I will pass the information on to my daughter-in-law.

Becky - Southeast Kansas

February 29, 2008 10:02 a.m.

iam 23 year old i used to take contraceptive pill i.e famillon tab, i stopped taking since 1 month i want to concive.but i want to know till when i have to wait for conciving and is there any danger if i concive now.

riya

February 28, 2008 3:48 p.m.

Bonnie - has your doctor put you on progesterone? with your history, you may have miscarried because your body wasn't producing enough for you and the baby. this is sometimes not accurately diagnosed by blood draw (saliva testing is better) but I would not take any chances. Your body has to produce ofr you both until the 2nd trimester when the placenta begins to produce for the baby.

Angie

February 28, 2008 2:42 p.m.

To Becky in Kansas - My daughter-in-law was also diagnosed with placenta previa and went to the hospital with bleeding. Her doctor ordered bedrest and scheduled a c-section for the 35th week. She went back to get admitted to the hospital for the C-section and the Dr. told her that her previa was gone and she could go home and wait to go into labor. She is fine and we are still waiting. The rest really worked and she didn't actually have to stay in bed just off her feet. She worked from home on a laptop computer. Good luck and God bless.

Lorinda

February 28, 2008 11:57 a.m.

Glad to see a blog like this from Mayo! My co-blogger Kay Krhin and I write a new parents' blog www.startribune.com/cribsheet at the Star Tribune and are always looking for discussions like this to link to. Good luck! May

Chen May Yee

February 28, 2008 10:24 a.m.

Ohh, Ms. Mary you are so great! I promise she is the best midwife! I happen to be one of her patients! Thanks to Mary we had a healthy little girl...Mary is very knowledgeable! You Go Mary! Great first Blog.

A. Hansen

February 28, 2008 8:49 a.m.

I am 29 and my husband and I are trying to start a family. For the past year I have suffered from Chronic Tension Headaches (stable). It has caused both depression and anxiety which I am currently be treated for by my doctor. I am a little nervous as I will have to be taken off some of my medication. I am just curious if others have experienced the condition I have and becoming a new parent.

B. Stanford

February 28, 2008 3:23 a.m.

I am going to have third baby.I am 41 and my wife is 36. She is 32 week now. She feel he body is extremely heating/hot compare to the prevoius one. Is this normal.

D.Mariadass

February 28, 2008 12:22 a.m.

My wife is also pregnant with second baby and has been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. She is in her 35th week and has fasting sugar level up to 140 mg/dl and RBS above 180 mg/dl. She was hospitalized last night for observation. So far the baby is fine, but what, if anything, can be done to reduce these occurrances? As far as I know, her doctor has advised her to control sugar by by taking sugar free diet told her to avoid wheat flour take diet bread.
Previously, she delivered a baby of complete term of 40 weeks. Due to long labour of six hours, the feotal heart distress and baby inhalled mechonium, the doctor decided C-section. Due to this my last baby developed respiratory problem and kept in ventilator for 24 days.
The condition of my wife is same, as was for previous pregnancy. It is serious?Please help.

Muhammad

February 27, 2008 9:42 p.m.

Grandma: The same thing happen to my sister, she had 2 kids, was done with having children (they youngest was 4) so she was just getting to the easier stage of children when she found out she was pregnant. She was not happy, as this was the least she expected, she felt guilty for not being happy, but in time she became attached in the pregnancy and is very close to all three children. She will feel the joy, just going to take some time, best advice is to listen... and be there.

holly

February 27, 2008 8:51 p.m.

I am nearly 39 and I am expecting my 5 baby. It will also be my 5th c-section. I wonder if anyone else has had this many c-sections.

Julie B

February 27, 2008 8:45 p.m.

I read some previous posters assuming that late 30's is too old. It's not!! I'm glad to say that I had my first baby at 40 and now a second pregnancy (8 wks) at 43. I also have two friends (40 and 42) that are currently pregnant also...and all the pregnancies are natural.

kate

February 27, 2008 6:59 p.m.

my nearly 39 year old daughter and 40 year old son in law are 3 mo. pregnant with an unplanned child. They have a 3 year old that took a long time to conceive. They are not handling this pregancy very well and my daughter says she doesn't feel the joy she felt the first time and feels &quot;disconntected.&quot; I am excited to be having a new grandchild, but heartbroken that they are so upset. How do I deal with all of this?

Grandma

February 27, 2008 2:51 p.m.

Patricia, as i said in an earlier post that I am nearly 39 and trying for the first time. My dr did warn me that I am running out of time, but because I am healthly otherwise and have taken care of my self that I could safely have children through age 43ish. Then I may be getting into some trouble, but there are many women out there who are having children later in life. There was a post from a woman in her second marriage who is 48. Where did her blog go?

Paula - NNY

February 27, 2008 1:53 p.m.

It's been fun reading your posts! I'm excited to read encourging words from many of you. I'm 37 and feel like it's too late for me to have a baby. I'm scared of having an unhealthy baby. Am I being selfish?? Wish I wasn't so worried about every little thing. Anyone on the same page with me? Does anyone have advice they'd like to share?

Patricia

February 27, 2008 1:52 p.m.

Has anyone had to take progesterone during their pregnancy? My daughter had one miscarriage and now is pregnant again. They put her on progesterone and now her levels are fluctuating. The doctor says she is out of danger of another miscarriage but she still worries...

Sue

February 27, 2008 1:43 p.m.

Bonnie - if your having abdominal pain, you probably should check with your doctor. It could just be muscle pain. Your abdomen muscles will be stretching a lot in pregnacy or you might have over done it yesterday. Take it easy and if your in doubt or worried, I suggest contacting your doctor. There are some great pregnacy books out there to buy and keep on hand, they have come in handy a lot for me. I like the Mayo guide to pregnancy the best.
I am 35 weeks along, and this is my first, I am 29. I had all sorts of anxiety over different things through out my pregnancy, but found comfort in finding good sources of information, such as, reading pregnancy books, talking to my doctor, asking my friends and family lots of questions, signing up for weekly pregnacy email updates and using good websites, such as this one, and the apa website: http://www.americanpregnancy.org/
I also got a pregnancy journal and organizer to help me be prepared for the baby and the changes in my life.

Kerri

February 27, 2008 11:34 a.m.

Hello all! I'm 25 and am 14 weeks into my second pregnancy, it's fun and exciting as I have a 5 year old who's very interested in becoming a new big brother. And it's about time he realized he's not the center of the universe! :D As long as I eat well, get active and stay rested, I'm happy! I'm working with my midwife whom I've known all my life, (truly! she was my mother's midwife when I was born! :D)and I'm planing a home birth. I'm very excited for that! Anyone else thought about it?!
* Note to Barbara about the pubic pain--&gt; I am a NYS Licensed Massage Therapist, the stretching of the pubic symphysis can be a bit uncomfortable during pregnancy, other factors may include the individual's weight and any posture conditions. Seeing a massage therapist AND a chiropractor would be a great help in preventing this condition and also it's treatment. Pregnancy massage is great no matter what! I need mine! :D
Keep on Keepin' up!

Shawn Marie ~ NY

February 27, 2008 10:49 a.m.

I am 48, in my 2nd marriage with a younger man, &amp; am currently awaiting a preg. test in a week to see if our invitro worked. I'd like to hear other mothers of &quot;advanced maternal age&quot; share their stories of pregnancy, birth, .... What types of comments did you receive?

Donna in Virginia

February 27, 2008 9:44 a.m.

I am 5weeks and 4 days pregnant. This is our third pregnancy. I miscarried the first two. I am feeling excited and very nervous. I did some crouching down alot yesterday and I was in pain all last night. I am just always afraid to do anything. I am really trying to relax but it is so hard. Any advice?

Bonnie-Little Rock, Ar

February 27, 2008 9:08 a.m.

My daughter-in-law is also pregnant and has been diagnosed with marginal placenta previa. She is in her 31st week and has had three bouts with bleeding. She was hospitalized last night for observation. So far the baby is fine, but what, if anything, can be done to reduce these occurrances? As far as I know, her doctor has not told her what to avoid or if she needs bedrest. Is this a serious condition? Please help.

Becky - Southeast Kansas

February 27, 2008 9:03 a.m.

I'm very excited to finally be pregnant! I'm 31 and this is our first baby. I'm 8 wks along. I feel anxious sometimes and then I remind myself of the millions of women with no or a sliver of the information at their fingertips to protect themselves and their baby who managed healthy pregnancies. I do feel anxious about other things like: my career and my body's changes. I'm not vain, but I really enjoy working out and staying in shape, and I work hard at it, and I do get nervous that once I'm unable to do all my activities (like tennis) that I will become cranky and lazy. Do others have these feelings? If so, what do you tell yourself to make yourself feel like this is not the end of the world as you know it? I know once I have the baby, there will be little else on my mind but him/her, but for now, these are my anxieties.
BTW Becca: The gender of the baby is usually determinable at 18 to 26 wks using an ultrasound.

Roslynn

February 27, 2008 7:58 a.m.

my daughter found out about this condition on her 4th pregnancy:
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/antenatalhealth/physicalhealth/pelvicpain/
Introduction
One problem that many pregnant women complain about is pubic pain. Yet doctors and midwives often dismiss this pain as either 'inconsequential', 'unfixable', or 'just one of those pregnancy discomforts that have to be endured'. Occasionally, some uninformed doctors have even erroneously told women that such pubic pain means that they would need an elective cesarean section in order not to permanently damage that area during birth, or as a result of prior damage to the area.
Yet none of this is true. Pubic pain in pregnancy is certainly not 'inconsequential'; Kmom knows from experience that it can be very difficult to deal with. Although many doctors and midwives do not know what causes it or how to fix it, many women are able to get improvement or relief with chiropractic treatment or osteopathic manipulation. It is not s

Barbara Gordon

February 27, 2008 7:38 a.m.

I am very excited about this blog. Thanks to everybody for taking the time to make their comments and especially to Ms Murry for creating it! I am shortly going to be 39 and my husband and I are trying for the first time to have a little one. I have never before been pregnant. He had his vasectomy reversed in November '07 after ~8 years. No luck yet, but its only been 3 1/2 months. (No pressure, honey) Does anybody have any experience with this type of situation?

Paula - NNY

February 27, 2008 6:44 a.m.

I have a 20 year old and a 3year old what a difference in not only the thing to buy but the ways to take care of a new baby.

DeeAnna Forbes

February 27, 2008 12:49 a.m.

Mary, this blog is so timely for me. I am at about 7 weeks into my second pregnancy and I have been wondering the same things. How do we have so many healthy people in this world when our moms, in their ignorance 30 years ago, drank, smoked and took diet pills during their pregnancies? I can't imagine what it will be like for our daughters!

JB

February 27, 2008 12:09 a.m.

I have been married for almost 3 years and finally got pregnant. I am now in my 9th week, but have not enjoyed it yet or got all excited about the pregnancy because I have been more nauseaus than anything else. What I did notice, I loved my meat, but these days, if I can stay without it, I am more than happy to. What I also noticed, the amount of advise you receive on a daily basis. I am not on any special dieet, but try to keep to the fruits as that is all I crave the whole day. I did not know that you may not eat certain cheeses ect. But hey, the previous generation survived, why can't ours???

Danniel

February 27, 2008 12:04 a.m.

I had a major blod clot in my IVC after my second pregnancy a few months ago -- I was very lucky that the doctors found it; my only symptom: what I thought was heartburn.
In any case I have been told that I can't go back on the pill and that I should not have any more babies as the risk is just too high.
What is your opinion? I am healthy, active, slim and would like to have more children. The clot was very big (over 2cm and a solid round ball) but after lots of blood work it appears to have been mechanical. In addition it appears after an MRV that I have a second blocked vein (but it looks like it was damaged/scarred).

SPrice

February 25, 2008 4:11 p.m.

When can you determine the baby's gender?
Becca
6 weeks 6 days

Becca

February 22, 2008 6:47 p.m.

I got pregnant after 5 years of marriage therefore I was really, really expecting this baby. These days internet provides pregnant women with information regarding do's and dont's, which is very good in order to have healthy babies as well as healthy moms. I didn't have a problem reducing my activities during my pregnancy as I was happy enough to be pregnant.

Elsa Sigit

February 22, 2008 5:08 p.m.

Marta: the part you wrote :There should be a place for pregnant women who would like to be practical and efficient while preventing their newborns from intoxication of poisonous products. I totally agree with you. All the new rules.... I had no idea I could not drink decaf pepermint tea?? I am trying to prepare myself before I get pregnant and wow so many different things to know...

Holly Gatto

February 22, 2008 3:14 p.m.

I agree with all these posts. This is my first pregnancy and I do feel as though I cannot do anything. My old life went out the door and now everyone babies me, carrying things for me, asking me how I am all the time; every time I see someone, pregnancy is all they ask me about. I must say, it's better to have people care than not though. I miss turkey clubs and hot dogs and wine and real coffee. The baby and maternity industry must be a billion dollar one because sometimes I am so overwhelmed by the things I &quot;need&quot; that I just don't want anything. There should be a place for pregnant women who would like to be practical and efficient while preventing their newborns from intoxication of poisonous products.

Marta

February 22, 2008 1:29 p.m.

Ah yes...diaper warmers, flat screen video monitors, and jogging strollers are just a few of the &quot;most registered for&quot; items at popular baby stores. I am just entering my fourteenth week of pregnancy and I feel completely uneducated when it comes to baby needs. I was looking at crib mattresses the other day and the sales rep tried to talk me into buying &quot;organic&quot;! I never gave organic bedding any thought to tell you the truth, but after her lengthy sales pitch, I was sucked in! Lucky for me I have my husband to keep my feet on the ground when it comes to smart shopping!

renee

February 22, 2008 8:40 a.m.

I am having the second baby and I haven't bought much of anything. We set up a basinet with our first and haven't even bothered with our second. We don't have a super big baby store and I am not caught up in all the hype. It seems all that babies need is a couple of outfits, a bottle if you are going that way, and a nice set of arms to hold him.

Leah

February 22, 2008 7:28 a.m.

I found the only &quot;things&quot; that were a tremendous help to me were: BabyBjorn and the Boppy nursing pillow. I hardly even used the changing table. Most times he was changed on the floor or bed! My son never used his crib! He co-slept with me until he was 2 yrs. then went straight to his big bed. He never had sippy cups either. Went straight from nursing to regular cups when he was 2 yrs. It's easy to get sucked into buying all these neat gadgets but in the long run you will barely use them. I'm pregnant again (at 40 yrs. old!) and I learned my lesson the first time. Hope this helps any first time moms out there.

Traci

February 21, 2008 8:08 p.m.

Wow, thanks so much for you blog. I am just in the beginning stage of trying to become pregnant and I am so overwhelmed with so many concerns, it's really hard to keep up with all the information. Like is it o.k for me to eat cottage cheese or not? Every site says something different. Especially trying to get pregnant it's so hard to know what I can have, what I can't. It seemed so much easier 20 years ago...

holly

February 21, 2008 2:25 p.m.

We never needed the baby swing or the full-size high chair. And the best baby bath tub I ever found was the kitchen sink! And measuring cups make great bath toys.

Jacquie

February 21, 2008 11:07 a.m.

Exactly! I bought the little lace-trimmed bassinette that my baby just HAD to have... but never used. And the screen-covered outdoor play yard? Absolutely freaked him out. But the BabyBjorn? From heaven.

Jennifer

February 21, 2008 10:07 a.m.

Aside from the fantastic breast pumps out these days, I don't know how many of the &quot;things&quot; were really necessary. Different people told us that we &quot;must have&quot; this swing or that bouncy seat... but in reality she hardly used any of those items. We found that they just take up space.

Julie

February 21, 2008 10:00 a.m.

Hi! This was a great idea. And it is true, there are many new rules for pregnant women. I am 23yrs. old and we are expecting our second child. My first pregnancy was wonderful, I was rarely sick and I was able to have a natural birth. Only 5 years later, things have definitely changed, it seems that prenatal vitamins are not enough. They suggest Omega 3 vitamins, yoga, no fish, and many more things.
It's hard enough finding a stay at home job or remembering to take a vitamin everyday or waiting for the test results to see if your baby may have down syndrome because of all the test the doctor suggests your to have.
It's all very exhausting but the end result is all worth it!

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